3 day itinerary for Vietnam

Itinerary

Vietnam is a fantastic destination for families, with its rich culture, delicious food, and stunning landscapes. Here’s a fun and engaging 3-day itinerary that will keep everyone entertained and create lasting memories!

## Day 1: Explore Hanoi

Morning:

• Breakfast at a Local Eatery: Start your day with a traditional Vietnamese breakfast. Try “phở” (noodle soup) or “bánh mì” (Vietnamese sandwich) at a local café. Kids usually love the crispy baguette!
• Hoan Kiem Lake: After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake. It’s a beautiful spot for a family walk, and you can visit the Ngoc Son Temple located on an island in the lake.

Midday:

• Lunch at a Street Food Market: Head to a street food market like the Old Quarter. Let the kids try various snacks like “nem chua” (fermented pork) or “bánh xèo” (Vietnamese pancakes). It’s a great way to introduce them to local flavors!

Afternoon:

• Visit the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology: This museum is perfect for families! It showcases the diverse cultures of Vietnam’s ethnic groups. The outdoor area has traditional houses that kids can explore.

Evening:

• Water Puppet Show: End your day with a traditional water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre. The colorful puppets and live music will captivate the whole family!
• Dinner: Enjoy dinner at a family-friendly restaurant. Try “com tam” (broken rice) or “bun cha” (grilled pork with noodles).

## Day 2: Day Trip to Halong Bay

Morning:

• Early Departure to Halong Bay: Start your day early and take a scenic drive to Halong Bay (about 2.5 hours from Hanoi). The views along the way are stunning!
• Cruise on the Bay: Board a family-friendly cruise. Many cruises offer activities like kayaking or swimming, which are perfect for kids. Don’t forget to take lots of photos of the limestone karsts!

Midday:

• Lunch on the Boat: Enjoy a delicious seafood lunch on board while soaking in the breathtaking views. Many cruises cater to kids with options like fried rice or chicken.

Afternoon:

• Explore Sung Sot Cave: After lunch, visit Sung Sot Cave (Surprise Cave). The kids will love exploring the impressive stalactites and stalagmites. It’s like stepping into a fairy tale!

Evening:

• Return to Hanoi: Head back to Hanoi in the evening. You’ll be tired but happy after a day of adventure!
• Dinner: Grab a casual dinner at a local restaurant or back at your hotel. A comforting bowl of “pho” will be perfect after a long day!

## Day 3: Cultural Immersion in Hoi An

Morning:

• Fly to Hoi An: Take a morning flight to Hoi An (about 1.5 hours). Once you arrive, check into your hotel and get settled.
• Explore Hoi An Ancient Town: Stroll through the charming streets of Hoi An. The colorful lanterns and historic buildings are enchanting! Don’t forget to stop by the Japanese Covered Bridge.

Midday:

• Lunch at a Riverside Café: Enjoy lunch at a café by the river. Try local specialties like “cao lau” (noodles) or “mi quang” (turmeric noodles). The kids will love the vibrant atmosphere!

Afternoon:

• Cooking Class: Sign up for a family-friendly cooking class. Many classes are designed for kids, where they can learn to make spring rolls or other Vietnamese dishes. It’s a fun and interactive way to bond as a family!

Evening:

• Release Lanterns on the River: As the sun sets, participate in the beautiful tradition of releasing lanterns on the river. It’s a magical experience that the kids will cherish.
• Dinner: Enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Try some grilled seafood or a hearty Vietnamese curry.

Tips for Traveling with Family:

• Stay Hydrated: Vietnam can be hot and humid, so make sure everyone drinks plenty of water.
• Pack Snacks: Having some familiar snacks on hand can help keep the kids happy during travel.
• Be Flexible: Kids can get tired, so be open to adjusting your plans if needed.

I hope this itinerary helps you create wonderful family memories in Vietnam! Enjoy your trip! 🌏✈️